Winter in Arizona is a bit like that friend who shows up quietly, without much fuss. No snowstorms. No icicles. No shoveling your driveway before coffee.
But here’s the thing: your trees still feel the shift — even if it’s subtle.
Cooler nights, dry air, and the occasional frost can all impact the health of your landscape. And because Arizona is, well, Arizona… many homeowners are surprised to learn that winter tree care really matters.
The good news? A few simple habits can help your trees stay healthy, hydrated, and strong from December through February.
Let’s walk through what your trees actually need this season (spoiler: less than summer, but still more than “nothing”).
Pro Tip: If you’re ever unsure how often to water, Iliana (our ISA-certified arborist) can give you a personalized watering schedule for your yard.
Pruning: Winter Is the Perfect Time for a Trim
Think of winter pruning as a cozy little reset for your trees. They’re dormant, resting, and ready for structural shaping without the stress of summer heat.
Why prune in winter?
- It removes dead or damaged branches before storm season.
- Trees heal more efficiently in cooler months.
- You can see the tree’s structure clearly without dense foliage.
But — and this is important — pruning isn’t guesswork. It’s a strategy.
A well-timed, properly placed cut promotes long-term growth. A poorly made one? It can weaken the tree or cause future breakage.
If you want the deep-dive version of why trimming matters, check out our blog:
👉 Why Hiring a Certified Arborist Matters Read Here
This one explains why expertise behind the shears makes a big difference
Frost Protection: Your Trees Need a Little Winter Wardrobe
Yes, frost happens in Phoenix. And when it does, it tends to sneak up on the sensitive trees first.
How to protect your trees from frost:
✔️ Use frost cloth (not plastic!)
It traps warm air around the canopy and protects new growth.
✔️ Cover from sunset to sunrise
That’s when temperatures dip the lowest.
✔️ Water before a cold night
Moist soil holds heat longer — think of it as a warm blanket for the roots.
✔️ Protect young or tender trees
Citrus, ficus, and tropical species appreciate the extra love.
If you’ve ever lost a tree to frost (or lost sleep worrying about losing one), you know how valuable this step is.
Arizona Winters Are Gentle — Your Tree Care Should Be, Too
Your trees don’t need extreme care in winter, but they do need intentional care.
A little pruning, a little watering, a little cold-night protection — it all adds up to stronger, happier trees when spring rolls around.
And if you’d like help figuring out what your landscape needs this season, we’re here for you.
Schedule a Free Estimate with Iliana Before the New Year!
A winter check-in now means a healthier landscape, safer trees, and a smoother transition into spring.
📞 Book your free estimate today and let our certified arborist give your trees the expert care they deserve.